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Antique coral jewelry courtesy of the Zanathia Jewelry collection Coral jewelry has been used in ancient societies for various reasons. Historically, coral was often used for sentimental adornments, serving as 'good luck' protection from illnesses and common pandemics. Coral accessories thousands of years old can be found in many different ancient societies, including Egypt, Rome, Greece, and China. Native American tribes were first introduced to red coral in America by the Spaniards during the 16th century. One of the most highly sought-after and collected corals is found in the Mediterranean waters and is often called 'blood coral' due to its deep...

One of the most important steps to preserving the material culture and stories of the past is to archive historical records. October is American Archives Month and is a significant part of historic preservation. Everything we archive will become a part of our stories and be used as primary sources to reference what will inevitably become the past. Every generation has gained inspiration from a previous period, a timeless muse used in many jewelry trends and styles through the centuries. The Victorians might have added their beautifully elaborate spin on items, but Ancient and Medieval Era cultural designs were extensively...

During the late 19th century Victorian Era, vibrant revival trends could be seen in ladies and gentlemen. Technological advancements and the booming manufacturing industry made creating diverse jewelry styles easier and less time-consuming. A refreshing interest in functionality was incorporated into jewelry with the revitalization of the chatelaine and the growing use of scarf and shawl pins. It is common to see an antique photo of a Victorian wearing a scarf or shawl pin, which would be securely pinned to the fabric of the upper bodice or torso. A shawl pin was also known as a lace pin. Lace pins...

Before World War I (1914-1918), the Czech Republic was formally the historic region of Bohemia. One of the most famous Victorian gemstones was sourced in Bohemia, which began mining and exporting Bohemian garnet during the Middle Ages. Bohemian garnet was not only a beautiful gemstone used in 19th-century accessories, but it was also cost-effective compared to diamonds and other precious stones. The metals used in Bohemian Garnet jewelry were more economical and cost-effective. Victorian Bohemian garnet jewelry became a popular costume trend, and its distinctive beauty is still heavily curated and worn.  Antique Victorian Era Bohemian Garnet beaded necklace and...

On February 14th, 2021, I published my second book: ''Unsung Portraits: Anonymous Images of Black Victorians and Early 20th Century Ancestors''.  The book emphasizes the accurate and non-distorted images of Black Victorians, the complete opposite of what has been portrayed in Black Americana memorabilia. For centuries, hateful stereotypes of Black Victorians have dominated the poster-child image of Black Americana. However, the negative caricatures that are emphasized are not an accurate representation. Unsung Portraits celebrates beautiful pictures of Black Victorians. Their grace, dignity, pride, and impeccable style are reflected in the images and part of their important stories.  We are celebrating the first anniversary of...